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IBM makes AI free for answering COVID-19 questions

IBM will make its Watson artificial intelligence software available for free, so government agencies, businesses, universities and healthcare institutions can use intelligent bots to answer citizens' queries about the unfolding COVID-19 crisis.

The software will be available for free for at least 90 days, meaning organisations can use it to create chatbots to alleviate demand and waiting times on customer service phone numbers.

IBM's Watson AI software will be free for organisations to create customer service bots, which can talk to people about their COVID-19 queries. iStock

The free service is already being used by organisations in the US and across Europe and the company said it could be added into existing mobile phone apps, or online apps such as the newly released Australian government's, to provide information and advice about the pandemic.

In a statement IBM's general manager of data and AI Rob Thomas said it was putting years of experience in helping businesses use natural language processing, out into the market for use.

"While helping government agencies and healthcare institutions use AI to get critical information out to their citizens remains a high priority right now, the current environment has made it clear that every business in every industry should find ways to digitally engage with their clients and employees,” he said.

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IBM said free use of Watson Assistant for Citizens would last for at least 90 days, and that it would be available to help organisations set it up. This typically takes a few days.

The bots work in English and Spanish, but can be tailored to 13 languages.

The company said examples of the free service already in use overseas included a COVID-19 Paediatric Assessment Tool in Atlanta, Georgia, which walks parents through a series of questions and results in suggested next steps that a parent should take.

The Andalusian government in Spain has used it to create a virtual agent to respond to queries about COVID-19 on its “Salud Responde” app and the Czech Ministry of Health has created a virtual agent called "Anežka" that advises citizens about prevention, treatment and other related topics on the coronavirus.

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Paul Smith edits the technology section and has been a leading writer on the sector for almost 20 years. He covers big tech, how businesses are using technology, fast growing start-ups, telecommunications and national innovation policy. Connect with Paul on Twitter. Email Paul at psmith@afr.com

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